Dior Rouge Liquid Lip Stain & Rouge Dior Double Rouge - Matte Metal Lipstick Review

When you shimmy into your little black dress and slip on your favorite pair of sexy pumps, the perfect finishing touch is a powerful lipstick and an intoxicating fragrance. Bold, feminine lip color is elegant and seductive which is why the Director of Dior Makeup has created the new Liquid Lip Stains and Matte Metal Lipsticks.

The stains are encased in chic, slender tubes with an elongated window that reveals the color within. There are 29 intense shades and 3 distinct finishes - Matte, Electric Metal and Pop Satin. To “push the limits, experiment and shock people a bit” there are also 4 extreme shades including a dramatic Black Matte, Oxblood (rich chocolate brown), Fab Satin (deep sensual plum) and Hologram (a multidimensional cyber silver) that can also be worn as a top coat.

Left to right: 828 Dressed To Matte, 574 Lively Matte, 442 Impetuous Satin and 515 Scandalous Metal.

The featherweight pigments produce highly saturated, vibrant color that glides on smoothly for ultimate dispersion that lasts up to 12 hours. A nourishing blend oils and lush gelling agents provide a creamy, moisturizing texture to keep lips healthy, supple and comfortable. I like that the rich formula deposits the perfect dose of pure color that molds to my lip contour to create shape, volume and definition without feathering.

The applicator is quite standard and small enough to get right into the corners to create sharp, neat lines. The pigment is so light that it feels like you’re applying a gloss but the effect is strikingly vivid - similar to a lacquer. The Lip Stains retail for $43.00 each at Dior Counters nationwide and a few exclusive shades are available at Sephora.

The Double Rouge Matte Metal Lipsticks ($43.00) fuses two popular trends to deliver a gorgeous ombré effect. The matte outer ring combines with the metallic core to create a sophisticated finish and the optical illusion of volume. The shades are expertly matched and balanced for the perfect color contrast. The highlight catches the light to create a luminous sheen and the deeper shade boldly accentuates. Below I have Poison Purple (with a shimmery golden pink core) and Dressed to Kill (burgundy-wine with a brilliant gold center).

Once you get the hang of applying the color, it is quite simple to create a mesmerizing ombré lip. I start off by touching the center shade to the middle of my lips and then using the pointed edges to fill in the outer perimeter with the matte shade. If you swipe both colors together, the darker shade may cover the highlight to create one solid color or a mosaic wash of light and dark. It also helps if you wipe off the metallic core after each use to keep the colors separated as they do tend to smear together. The luxurious formula is light, silky and highly pigmented – offering versatile coverage, hydration and optimum coverage.

After your makeup is done and you are dressed-to-impress, a flattering fragrance is a must! Miss Dior is described as “a perfume that smells like love” with a stirring composition that is elegant yet rebellious. The bottle adds the perfect touch of femininity to your vanity with thick structured glass and a playful silver bow.

Miss Dior is a mix of seduction, high-fashion, style and refinement. The scent is constructed of honeyed Damascena Rose, sparkling Blood Orange, Mandarin and Bergamot contrasted by a sultry base of Pink Peppercorn and Guyanese Rosewood. These robust ingredients blend to form a wonderful aroma that is ideal for day wear or an evening out. You can smell the freshness mingled with light sweetness and deep complexity - creating the perfect balance. The 100 ml bottle featured here retails for $165.00 and the fragrance is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Sephora and Dior Counters nationwide.

Fall 2017 Makeup Trends – Metallic Lips

Autumn is the perfect time to unleash your inner diva and embrace the bold, glamorous trends of the season including rich, sultry color. This year many brands have released a variety of metallic pigments to enhance your pout with a wash of pretty chrome shimmer.

The Essence Metal Shock Lipsticks ($5.99) are available in 7 scintillating hues that range from burgundy-purple and luminous rose to daring shades like green, blue and rose gold. The creamy formula glides on effortlessly and drenches lips in a sparkling sheen. There are no glitter chunks so the lipsticks apply smoothly and the pigmentation is versatile, bright and highly saturated for consistent coverage.

The lightweight, comfortable texture is moisturizing and the metallic finish shows through prominently so your lips are the center of attention. The broad surface allows for easy application with no need for liner and I love how the color glimmers in the light.

Some of my favorites are the more wearable shades – 05 purple and 03 fuchsia pink. Essence Cosmetics is available at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Loreal has also launched some gorgeous Metallic Lip Paints ($12.99) – an extension of the original formula with a brilliant new twist. These lush pigments offer full-coverage, highly saturated color with a glittering, multi-dimensional sheen that is reflective and mesmerizing. 332 Galactic Foil is a glowing pink that looks absolutely stunning and 334 Smoldering Eclipse (deep purple berry) is perfect for the season! The glitter tends to scatter and remain on the lips after the color has faded but a little mess is a small price to pay for stunning chrome lips. Loreal is available at drugstores nationwide.

We can’t talk about metallic lip color without mentioning the NYX Cosmic Metals Lip Creams ($10.00). These velvety pigments are vibrant and intense with a wide variety of shades to choose from including neutrals and gold tones. The dazzling, opaque colors and magnificent finishes accentuate your pout and provide a dramatic effect with just a few quick swipes. 

NYX is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, freestanding stores and online at nyxcosmetics.ca

With the Urban Decay Vice Special Effects Long-Lasting Water Resistant Top Coats ($21.00 ea) you can add a pretty metallic finish to any cream, satin or matte lipstick with loads of glitter! Simply brush them over your favorite shades to create beautiful lip art effects and once dry the color stays in place for comfortable mess-free wear. Urban Decay is available at Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, UD freestanding stores and online at urbandecay.ca. To read the full review and see swatches click HERE.

Estee Lauder Fall 2017 Skincare – Revitalizing Supreme+ Global Anti-Aging Collection

As we make our way into fall, the temperature gradually changes along with our skincare needs. Cool weather and drastic fluctuations can cause dryness, chapping and sensitivity which is why it’s a good idea to use products that increase moisture, repair and protect against environmental assaults. I’ve been using the Revitalizing Supreme+ Global Anti-Aging Collection from Estee Lauder for over a year to keep my complexion glowing and nourished. The rich formulas heal, soothe and deeply hydrate to enhance resiliency.

The Revitalizing Supreme+ Global Anti-Aging Cell Power Crème ($97.00) is one of my favorite moisturizers. I reviewed it last fall and raved about the Moringa Extract that helps firm and amplify elastin to tone your profile and visibly reduce wrinkles. The new formula is Supreme+ Light with a luxurious, silky texture that envelopes the skin and absorbs deeply to enhance radiance, bounce and vitality for a youthful glow. Since this version isn’t as rich as the previous formula, it is more suitable for normal/combination skin and day wear. The cream provides an invigorating boost of hydration and works well under makeup to create a smooth, supple canvass that looks and feels firm. I still prefer the original texture to alleviate dry skin, but both creams work incredibly well and consist of the same active ingredients.

The Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix ($88.00) provides a 360˚ cushion of plumping support to give the eyes a fresh, “wide open look.” This means that you can apply the cream under the eyes to brighten dark circles and diminish bags. Dab some in the corners to lift and smooth the appearance of fine lines and pat a few drops on the lids to reduce puffiness and prevent sagging. The serum strengthens the delicate skin around the eyes and moisturizes with Hyaluronic Acid for 24 hours. I like that it makes me look well rested and refreshed (even when I’m not) and it eliminates the dryness on my lids so that my eye makeup looks even better! After the first few uses my dark circles began to lighten and fade but the applicator makes extracting the product a tad difficult.

To read my review on the bestselling Advanced Night Repair Recovery Mask-In-Oil Click HERE.

The Revitalizing Supreme+ Instant Refinishing Facial $68.00) is a rejuvenating treatment that gently buffs away dead skin cells to soften, smooth and resurface. I am a bit sensitive to abrasive substances but the micro-fine exfoliating particles are infused in a soothing, gentle cream that is moisturizing and non-irritating. You can use it in the shower for a wonderful spa experience that enhances the absorption of skincare products.  

The new Power Eye Balm ($75.00) has most of the same results as the concentrate with a richer texture that feels amazing on tired eyes and dry skin. It hydrates, smooths, firms and illuminates with a reviving blend of conditioners and you can also use it as a weekly eye mask.

To read my review on the Revitalizing Supreme+ Eye Gelée click HERE

Estee Lauder is available at Holt Renfrew, Sears, Shoppers Drug Mart, The Bay, Murale, Sephora, Nordstrom, Saks and esteelauder.ca

Pur Cosmetics Chrome Glaze High Shine Lip Gloss & Velvet Matte Liquid Lipstick Review

Pur Cosmetics makes gorgeous lip color and their lacquers are some of my favorite liquid lipsticks. Whether you like bold, opaque color (like me) or high-shine glossy shades, Pur has something for everyone including vivid fall hues!

For those who still dig the neutral lip trend, I chose 2 shades that are flattering on all complexions with mild undertones. Ever After (on the left) is a pretty mauve-pink with a creamy matte finish that looks great with my autumn wardrobe. The color is deep and eye-catching yet still quite tame. When you’re in the mood for a neutral gloss, Smarty Pants is a flattering, subtle pink that enhances your natural lip color with a beautiful flush.

The matte formula glides on full-coverage and smooth with a rich, mousse texture that conditions and hydrates to prevent flaking and dryness. The intense color provides hours of comfortable wear and nourishing Agave Extract helps plump and fill lines to create a flawless finish.

I like that the applicator has a pointed tip which makes shaping and defining the lip contour much easier and you can create a neat outline without lip liner.

For fall I love deep, vampy pigments. The lighter shade (on the left) is a Velvet Matte called Addiction. This gorgeous burgundy-wine will probably be one of my go-to colors next season and it looks amazing with sparkling gold shadow. The darker shade is a Chrome Glaze called Rebel. The creamy gloss provides a vibrant stain and sheer, luminous color that moisturizes and plumps. You can also wear the gloss over the matte for opaqueness and shine.

The gloss and liquid lipstick retail for $29.00 each at Shoppers Drug Mart and beautyboutique.ca

Kiehl’s Skincare Review - Bestsellers

Kiehl’s has been around since 1851 and over the years the brand has become renowned for quality ingredients and effective skincare that can be tailored to suit your individual needs. Now until September 27th 2017, you are invited to enjoy a free consultation at any Kiehl’s store across Canada to establish your skin needs and receive 5 complimentary samples! To celebrate this awesome promotion, I’ve been testing a few Kiehl’s Classics – a selection of top sellers and fan faves that have gained recognition for their amazing results.

First up is my personal favorite -  the Midnight Recovery Concentrate ($81.00) which comes in a dark blue bottle to maintain the integrity and potency of the natural ingredients. This replenishing Elixir is composed of pure essential oils and distilled botanicals that “restore the appearance of skin by morning.” Simply apply a few drops to clean skin before bed and let the nutritive extracts work their magic as you get your beauty rest. The oil smells fantastic and absorb deeply to regenerate, smooth, hydrate and repair. I absolutely love this product! It works well layered with my other night care and helps balance my skin to reduce and heal breakouts, blemishes and imperfections. After a few nights, my complexion is clear, even and supple.

I’ve been using Calendula Oil for years because it helps calm and soothe my skin. The Calendula Deep Cleansing Face Wash ($37.00) is soap and sulfate free to prevent dryness and the refreshing citrus extracts and rich lather foams away impurities, excess oil, dirt, bacteria and pore-clogging makeup.

The Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque ($35.00) is just what I need to prep my skin for a busy week and protect it from city smog and pollution. The rich, mineral clay is sourced from the Amazon River and gently draws out impurities and toxins while eliminating debris and dead skin cells. It also reduces the look of pores, purifies and detoxifies so skin appears clear, smooth, youthful and radiant.

I love anything that has avocado in it because the fatty oils are extremely nourishing. Kiehl’s has created the Creamy Eye Treatment with avocado ($38.00) – a decadent formula that moisturizes and rejuvenates delicate skin around the eyes to reduce the look of wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles. It is thicker than most eyes creams so I prefer to apply it at night and I love that it doesn’t migrate into the eyes and burn.

The Crème de Corps All-Over Body Moisturizer ($39.00) is lightweight, non-greasy and incredibly hydrating! The cream alleviates dry, flaky skin on contact and makes my entire body feel supple, silky and healthy. This is a great product for fall/winter and it works wonders on dry hands, cuticles, nails and feet. I also use it after shaving to enhance smoothness and calm irritation.

The Ultra Facial Cream ($36.00) is a 24 hour daily moisturizer that can be used day or night to boost moisture with no greasy residue. The lightweight texture works well under makeup and I like to combine it with the Midnight Recovery Concentrate before bed to create an amazing night mask that revitalizes my skin.

You can find these great products at Kiehl’s Stores across Canada and online at kiehl’s.ca

Lise Watier X Elle Fall 2017 Weekender Collection

Fall trends usually showcase deep pigments and vibrant hues but when Lise Watier teamed up with Elle Canada to create the Limited Edition Weekender Collection they toned things down with sparkling, icy shadows and neutral lips. The brand also has a beautiful range of Lip Stains and intense Velours that are perfect for the season.

The Weekender Eye Shadow Palette ($48.00) includes 6 creamy pigments in both matte and shimmer finishes. The chic marbled case is sturdy and beautifully constructed with a large mirror and 2 applicators. Although the colors may look neutral and soft, they apply full-coverage and highly saturated to create a variety of glamorous looks. There is beautiful contrast between the solid mattes and sparkling shimmers and they blend smoothly with no creasing or fading. The quality of the shadows is fantastic and the deep brown layers well to sculpt and shape the crease. The mesmerizing blue and flashy grey tones accentuate the eyes and remind of winter.

The Weekender Collection also includes the Rouge Gourmand Lipstick ($25.00) with the same marble packaging. The neutral, mid-tone brown is creamy, comfortable and ultra-moisturizing with a nourishing formula that softens lips, increases volume and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

The Intense Waterproof Eyeliner ($23.00) in deep, creamy plum delivers intense color with each stroke and lasts up to 14 hours without running or fading. You can blend this shade under the lower lash lines to create smokiness or use it on the lips to shape and enhance your fall lipsticks.

The Blush-On Powder in the shade Lie de Vin ($30.00) is a pretty mauve-pink with subtle shimmer that looks great in autumn. It isn’t as light and fresh as the blush we tend to wear in the summer but the deep undertone provides a flush of color while defining and contouring the face. The powder has buildable pigmentation so you can adjust the contrast and a silky texture that does not accentuate skin texture or dryness.

The Baiser Velours ($28.00) and the Baiser Stains ($28.00) are more my style. Both collections have a rich creamy formula with intense, full-coverage color that is incredibly bold and vivid. Once lips are drenched in these liquid lipsticks your pout becomes the center of attention with more volume and shape. The Stains have a long-lasting satin finish and the Velours dry matte and creamy to retain moisture. Since some of the colors aren’t visible through the tubes, I will swatch each shade below.

Velours: Fashion Kiss, Eternal Kiss, Passion Kiss. Stains: Tango Kiss, Infernal Kiss, Bombshell Kiss and Fancy Kiss.

The Ménage A Trois Blush Powder Trio ($31.00) contains 2 blush pigments and 1 highlighter. These soft hues apply smooth and velvety and I love the golden, neutral tones! The highlighter has amazing pigmentation to create luminous radiance and you can swirl your brush over the entire compact to combine all the colors.

Lise Watier is available at department stores and drugstores including: Hudson’s Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs, and online at lisewatier.com

Clarins Fall 2017 Makeup Collection - Review & Swatches

Clarins is a prestige brand that exudes sophistication and inspires women all over the world. As a Travel Editor, I've visited many cities including Venice and Paris where Clarins products adorn boutique windows - showcasing the hottest trends, amazing skincare and posh new shades. This fall it’s all about smoky greens and deep, sultry blues that contrast beautifully with vivid lip color and graphic liner.

The 4 Color Eye Shadow Palette ($45.00) in the shade Forrest features stylish autumn tones including 2 satiny greens with subtle shimmer, dark matte grey to sculpt the crease and light pink to highlight. The pigments are incredibly smooth and velvety for superior blending and the finishes are multifaceted. The shadows start off soft, elegant and sheer with the versatility to be enhanced for more intensity. I love that the palettes all have mirrored casing with slight magnification for makeup application and the quality is always superb.

The Ombre Matte Eye Shadows ($26.00 ea) have an amazing formula that combines the smoothness of a cream with the wear and finish of a powder. Midnight Blue is simply stunning! The rich, buttery pigment is infused with Bamboo Powder for longevity and embedded with subtle pearl reflections for an iridescent finish. I prefer to wear this shade on its own – saturated on the eyelids and faded into the crease and under the lower lash line for sexy smokiness.

Ivory is a luminous eggshell white which you can use as a base or for blending and highlighting.

The Blush Prodige ($33.00) in Golden Pink has a flattering multi-dimensional effect to illuminate and revitalize dull skin. I love the candlelight sheen and the lightweight, satiny color with hints of coral.

The Jolie Rouge Lipstick in Deep Red ($28.00) is a scintillating ruby that makes lips look full and pouty. It is the perfect mid-tone, intense red for all skin tones and it applies effortlessly for consistent coverage. The moisturizing formula drenches lips in nourishing oils to prevent dryness and the hint of glimmering shine makes the red even more glamorous – perfect for parties and events of all kinds. For neater application, pair the lipstick with Clarin’s Lip Liner Pencil in Red. A blend of jojoba makes the pigment creamy and supple so it glides around the lip contour to accentuate and sculpt.

When the weather cools down you may need to replenish and protect your lips so Clarins has created the Limited Edition Lovely Lip Balm ($18.00) enriched with a hydrating plant cocktail for long-lasting comfort. Lips appear smooth, full and rosy thanks to organic Cocoa Butter and Shea Oil that repair and nourish. The balm is also formulated with “intelligent pigment” which reacts with your pH level to develop radiant, natural looking color. The peach flavor smells delicious and I love the cute packaging!

Clarins is available at department stores, pharmacies and online at clarins.ca